Wonderful article, came at the right time as I had just purchased a Tod's bag and it somehow didnt look right,  like the fine quality that Tod's has.  I had called Tods in NYC and they advised that with their product line(unlike Ferragamo or Prada) does not have any serial number or card, and the only way to tell if the bag was authentic was to bring it in(inconvient at this point).

To my sellers credit he advised my satisfaction was important and that while he confirmed the bag was leather and real, I could return it.  Thanks for making me aware of this problem as prior to this article I would have gone against my gut feeling.

Caveat Empetor!